Next-Level Interview Tips for Hawai’i Job Seekers

Written By Ben Kiblinger

You’ve registered on HireNet Hawaii, honed your resume with our Resume assistance, and maybe even attended one of our workshops on dressing for success. Now, the moment of truth: the job interview.

You already know to bring multiple copies of your resume—that’s the basics. But we believe in setting you up for success in finding a sustainable job here on Hawai’i Island. To truly stand out, you need to bring items that show your commitment, preparation, and pono (proper) attitude.

Here are four essential items no one usually tells you to pack, and how they connect to the support you get from Hawai’i Workforce and its partners.

1. A High-Quality Notepad and Pen

When we talk about interviewing tips, we stress active listening. Bringing a pad and pen isn't just for looking busy; it shows you value what the interviewer says.

What to Write Down: Don’t just jot notes about the job duties. Write down the interviewer's name (and pronounce it correctly!), key company values, or specific community initiatives they mention. This demonstrates that you’re focused on joining their ʻohana (family/community) and not just taking a transactional job.

  • Tip from Your Career Advisor: Use the quiet setting and resources in our Resource Room to practice the drive to the interview site and write out your key questions beforehand.

2. A Pre-Written, Handwritten Mahalo Card

Email is fast, but an immediate, handwritten expression of mahalo (gratitude) leaves a lasting impression. Before you leave for the interview, prepare a card with the date, leaving space only for the interviewer’s name and one specific, genuine point of thanks you gathered during the conversation.

Leave it with the receptionist or security guard on your way out. This small act of respect—the Aloha Spirit in action—shows a level of professional thoughtfulness that is highly valued in our close-knit island community.

3. Proof of Learning (Even If It's Not a "Portfolio")

If you are transitioning to a new field through the Adult or Dislocated Worker Program, or if you’ve recently completed in-demand training, you need more than just a line on your resume.

Even if the job isn't creative, bring tangible proof of your abilities:

  • A printout of a spreadsheet you managed (with proprietary data redacted).

  • A course completion certificate from an Ola I Ka Hana program.

  • A one-page document summarizing a challenging project you solved using skills learned in the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).

This helps the interviewer visualize your competence and the return on investment they'll see by hiring someone who has utilized our services to prepare for a new career chapter.

4. Three Thoughtful, Value-Based Questions

Every interviewer expects you to ask, “What are the next steps?” But the questions that count are those that show you understand the company’s goals in our community.

Examples to prepare:

  • “How does your company’s connection with our community show up in the daily work of this department?”

  • “What is one thing about the company culture that makes people feel truly connected to the island?”

The most important thing you can bring is your best prepared self. If you need any help refining your references, practicing your questions, or accessing materials, remember that your Assigned Career Advisor and the full suite of Hawaiʻi Workforce services are here to support you every step of the way. E hele kāua (Let’s go together)!

Ben Kiblinger